KYS

Know Your Status

Negative, on PrEP: You have tested HIV-negative, but are also taking PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis), a medication known by its brand name, Truvada. When taken daily PrEP is greater than 98% effective at preventing HIV.

Positive, undetectable: You have tested Positive for HIV, but you are taking antiretroviral medications resulting in an undetectable viral load. HIV-positive people with undetectable viral loads can live a normal life span. Studies have shown that when one is undetectable it’s virtually impossible to transmit the virus.

More about HIV:

We all have a role to play in the health of our community. That is why we work to promote awareness of HIV with our Know Your Status feature (KYS).

Gay men across the globe continue to be disproportionally impacted by HIV. As many as 20% of gay men in major urban areas are living with HIV. We encourage you to disclose your HIV status and to keep it current, for the benefit of your own health and others. You can take steps to protect your health and prevent HIV.

Early detection can make a difference in your treatment, the sooner you’re tested the sooner you can take control of your health. While there is no cure for HIV, getting tested often can help you stay healthy by getting on treatment early. Achieving an undetectable viral load means people can live a long, healthy life and the chance of transmission is virtually impossible.

HIV Positive members of our community are strong HIV treatment and prevention advocates. Sharing your positive status can mean strength, empowerment, and being an advocate against stigma.

Knowing your status and discussing the status of your sexual partner is how to make informed choices. Knowledge of your status allows you to get early treatment if HIV-positive, or to pursue PrEP and other prevention options to stay negative.

Getting tested is fast and there are many free testing sites around the world. Get familiar with one and get into a routine of getting tested every six months. As we continue to work toward the goal of no new HIV infections, only you can take control of your own health.

We encourage you to share your HIV status in your Hornet profile, and to keep it current. Disclosing your status is nothing to be ashamed of and it’s good for your health and the community. We can all work together to prevent HIV and reduce stigma.